Rhododendron tomentosum (syn. Ledum palustre), commonly known as marsh Labrador tea, northern Labrador tea or wild rosemary, is a flowering plant in the subsection Ledum of the large genus Rhododendron in the family Ericaceae.
Labrador tea is highly resistant to disease and generally does not tend to get sick. In terms of care, the plant is fairly low-maintenance. When grown outdoors it needs only minimal watering, and larger plants typically do not require pruning. Smaller plants, however, should be pruned after they finish blooming. Labrador tea is suitable for anyone with an outdoor space, such as a garden or deck, and does not require extensive care experience.
How to keep Ledum Palustre.
Light
Labrador tea grows best where sunlight is plentiful and continuous throughout the day. It can tolerate areas with less light, although this may affect its healthy growth. Coming from habitats with abundant sun, insufficient light can cause stunted growth, while excessive exposure can lead to leaf burn.
Temperature
Labrador tea is a versatile plant that thrives in ambient temperatures of 41 to 89.6 °F (5 to 32 ℃). It favors a cooler, temperate climate. In regions with harsh winters or extreme summers, seasonal temperature adjustments may be necessary.
Fertilizer
Timing matters for feeding Labrador tea. Begin fertilizing in early spring and continue on a monthly schedule through early summer. Fertilizer encourages attractive blooms and supplies energy during both dormant periods and active growth.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Shrub
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Ledum
- Family
- Ericaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 4-8
- Mature Height
- 0.61 m to 1.52 m
- Mature Spread
- 1.22 m
- Leaf Color
- Green
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- White
- Flower Size
- 0.76 cm
- Bloom Time
- Late spring, Early summer
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer
- Harvest Time
- Mid summer
- Native Area
- Denmark
Other names.
